The 2026 Lexus ES lineup is now complete with the arrival of the ES 350h. It joins the first-ever battery-electric ES 350e and ES 500e. Like the EVs, the hybrid variant comes with a generous list of standard equipment. These include the Lexus Safety System+ 4.0 driver assistance suite, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and a massive 14-inch touchscreen.
Like its EV siblings, the 2026 Lexus ES 350h rides on an updated TNGA-K platform designed for varying levels of electrification. It’s 2.2 inches wider, 6.5 inches longer, and 4.5 inches taller than the outgoing seventh-generation ES. Meanwhile, its wheelbase is 3.1 inches longer. As a result, the 2026 ES has a roomier interior for all occupants. The ES 350h is distinguished by its conventional fuel door and an upper air intake on the front bumper. Otherwise, both hybrid and EV look identical.
2026 Lexus ES 350h: More Power, More Refinement
Powering the 2026 ES 350h is the latest iteration of the Toyota and Lexus hybrid system. It uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder coupled to two or three electric motors and a planetary gear set. This latest iteration sees major power increases for several components. The gas engine gains 10 hp and 10 lb-ft of torque for a total of 186 hp and 173 lb-ft. It features increased block rigidity, a new multi-hole direct fuel injector, a new variable cooling system, and an electronically controlled variable-capacity oil pump to improve efficiency.
On the other hand, the electric motor’s output increases to 201 hp and 199 lb-ft, a whopping increase of 83 hp and 50 lb-ft, respectively. AWD models have a 54-hp rear electric motor, allowing for on-demand traction when needed. It can also bias power between 100:0 and 20:80 front-to-rear. Total system output for both FWD and AWD models is 244 hp.
Other changes include a simplified cooling circuit for the planetary gear set, a simplified cooling system, and a new multi-axis layout for the two front electric motors. The sixth-generation hybrid system also favors the more powerful front motor. Additionally, a new microfiber on the engine’s air intake helps minimize high-frequency noises at higher rpms. A larger muffler quiets the engine further, while a flexible coupler minimizes vibration. The ES 350h also includes Active Noise Cancellation to suppress boominess.
EPA mpg ratings for the ES 350h impress. FWD models check in at 48/44/46 mpg city/highway/combined, while the AWD variants are rated at 47/42/44 mpg.
Pricier Than the EV?!
Yup, the 2026 Lexus ES 350h costs more than the ES 350e. The base Premium trim starts at $51,095. That’s $2,200 more than the ES 350e! Adding AWD bumps the price to $52,495, which is $600 more than the equivalent ES 500e Premium with 338 hp. The Premium+ models start at $55,895 for FWD or $57,295 with AWD, putting them below the Luxury trims of the ES 350e and ES 500e.
Source: Lexus
